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SYSTEMS STUDY AND ASSESSMENT OF METHACOAL AS A COAL TRANSPORTATION ALTERNATIVE. FINAL REPORT

The results of a preliminary study of the feasibility of transporting coal as a stable suspension of pulverized coal in methanol made from coal are reported. This stable suspension has been called methacoal. Alternative coal transportation modes are first reviewed. The methacoal concept for coal transport is then described. A material balance and cost analysis of the methanol and methacoal processes are then presented. A system concept design model is derived for the methacoal transportation concept. In conclusion the study results to date are summarized and a preliminary evaluation of the methacoal technology is provided. (ERA citation 04:028963)